Gandhinagar, Dec 28 (NationPress) Union Home Minister Amit Shah stated on Sunday that India is progressively establishing a comprehensive health ecosystem, focusing significantly on preventive care, wellness, and making healthcare accessible to everyone.

He delivered these remarks during the swearing-in ceremony of the newly appointed officials of the Indian Medical Association (IMA) in Ahmedabad, where Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel was also present.

While addressing the medical professionals in the IMA's centenary year, Amit Shah emphasized that realizing the vision of a Viksit Bharat necessitates a healthy population, with doctors playing a vital role in shaping the country's future. “Healthcare's emphasis should gradually transition from treating illness to promoting wellness,” he asserted.

Shah highlighted the significant changes in the health sector under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, mentioning initiatives like the Swachhata Mission, Fit India Movement, Khelo India, International Yoga Day, Ayushman Bharat Yojana, ABHA, Mission Indradhanush, and the promotion of generic medicines, telemedicine, and video consultations as foundational steps towards a people-centric healthcare system. He pointed out that a substantial budget of Rs 1.65 lakh crore has been earmarked for enhancing health infrastructure nationwide.

Shah noted a remarkable increase in India’s health budget—from Rs 37,000 crore in 2013-14 to Rs 1.28 lakh crore today—resulting in noticeable improvements in healthcare services. He praised the medical community for its unwavering dedication during the COVID-19 pandemic and expressed confidence in their ongoing efforts to promote the Ayushman Bharat scheme and affordable generic medicines.

Emphasizing the importance of adapting to evolving times, Shah stated that medical ethics must also progress. He encouraged organizations like the IMA to take the initiative in redefining medical ethics and urged medical colleges to instill strong ethical values in the next generation of doctors. He also called for IMA members to actively collaborate in expanding telemedicine and video consultation services, specifically targeting underserved communities.

In congratulating Dr. Anil Nayak for becoming the new National President of the IMA, Shah described him as dynamic and expressed optimism that the association would regain momentum under his guidance, not only addressing doctors' issues but also fortifying the nation’s healthcare system.

During his address, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel remarked that in the last decade, India's healthcare services have been significantly enhanced through advanced facilities, modern infrastructure, and the integration of the latest medical technologies. He acknowledged the swift growth in the number of AIIMS institutions, medical colleges, and super-specialty hospitals throughout the country.

On this occasion, IMA Chief Patron and former President Ketan Desai congratulated the association on its centenary and spoke about the rapid advancements occurring in the healthcare sector. Dr. Anil J. Nayak took the oath of office as the National President of the IMA and, in his inaugural speech, expressed gratitude to the medical community while outlining the association’s anticipations from the government.

The event also saw the launch of the book ‘100 Steps for a Healthy Life’ and the presentation of a world record certificate.

The ceremony was attended by former National President Dr. Dilip Bhanushali, Secretary General Sarvari Dutta, and prominent members including Dr. Piyush Jain, Dr. Anil Patel, and Dr. Mehul Shah, alongside office-bearers and member doctors.

More than 5,000 doctors from across the nation participated in the three-day national conference organized by the Indian Medical Association.